Age-Friendly Newsletters

AGE-FRIENDLY COMMUNITY ~ December 7, 2015The Age-Friendly Community Project Team in Bethel is exploring nine Livability Factors that affect the quality of life for seniors. Our research into Bethel’s status is still in progress, and our preliminary reports are available in the Bethel Library (red folders on a dedicated bookshelf) and Bethel Family Health Center. LIVABILITY FACTOR #2: TRANSPORTATION Are there safe and affordable modes of private and public transportation?This issue is commonly a predominant challenge facing those who live in remote, rural communities, such as Bethel and surrounding towns. Transportation services currently offered in the Bethel area:•The Community Rides program, run by non-profit Western Maine Transportation Services (WMTS): public, wheel-chair accessible bus service on a request basis. (Income guidelines). FMI: 1-800-393-9335.•Accessible transportation services for medical appointments: ElderRides program, also run by WMTS. (Income guidelines). FMI: 1-800-393-9335.•Northern Vista Senior Care: free transportation to and from Lewiston for those needing chemotherapy and radiation treatment. FMI: Gerry McCann, 836-2173.•Mountain Explorer shuttle during the winter season at designated stops within the village of Bethel and between Bethel and Sunday River. (free) FMI: http://mountainexplorer.org/.•Stagecoach Shuttle Services: taxi service within the greater Bethel area and to Sunday River; also to the Portland transportation centers and most of Maine on a 24/7 basis (fee). FMI: 357-5783.

Survey Analysis: Save the DateWe were extremely pleased with the return of over 200 surveys distributed in October. These were sent to Amy Flowers of Analytic Insight in Lewiston. After analyzing the data, she will be in Bethel for a comprehensive presentation on her findings. Her analysis will undoubtedly suggest future projects to improve the livability of the Bethel community. Please join us to hear from, and talk with, Amy: Thursday, January 14, 2016, 4:00-6:00 p.m. at the West Parish Congregational Church in Bethel. 2-1-1 ServiceWe learned recently of a wonderful service available to all Mainers. 2-1-1 is an easy-to-remember number that connects people who want to give help or get help with a full range of health and human services in their community. 2-1-1 includes a statewide directory of over 8000 resources, including agency services and support groups accessible through this website to anyone with Internet capability. 2-1-1 provides emergency operations during times of natural and other disasters, including accurate and timely information for preparations and longer-term referral for follow-up services if required.Go to http://211maine.org to learn about this service. If you do not have access to Internet or e-mail, dial 2-1-1 and you will be connected to a live Call Specialist who will help you find the services you need. If you do not wish to receive the AFCP newsletter, please let me know, and for more information, you may contact Nancy Davis (nancydavis.bethel@gmail.com, 381-1110). Happy Holidays!We’ll see you again in 3 weeks.(Nancy Davis, Editor)